In Chapter 2, a prophet is sent to Eli to announce God’s judgment, because “you honor your sons more than me.” A curse is placed in Eli’s line. God will raise up a man who will be faithful to all that is in God’s heart and mind.
The prophet’s message is confirmed in Chapter 3 when the Lord speaks directly to Samuel.
And the Lord said to Samuel, Behold, I will do a thing in Israel, at which both the ears of every one that heareth it shall tingle. 12 In that day I will perform against Eli all things which I have spoken concerning his house: when I begin, I will also make an end. 13 For I have told him that I will judge his house for ever for the iniquity which he knoweth; because his sons made themselves vile, and he restrained them not. 14 And therefore I have sworn unto the house of Eli, that the iniquity of Eli’s house shall not be purged with sacrifice nor offering for ever. 1 Samuel 3:11-14
As Samuel matures he is widely recognized as a prophet, for the Lord “let none of his words fall to the ground.” This, and the contrast between Samuel’s character and that of Eli’s sons, are the source of the great influence which this last of the judges is to have in Israel.
19 And Samuel grew, and the Lord was with him, and did let none of his words fall to the ground. 20 And all Israel from Dan even to Beersheba knew that Samuel was established [2] to be a prophet of the Lord. 21 And the Lord appeared again in Shiloh: for the Lord revealed himself to Samuel in Shiloh by the word of the Lord. 1 Samuel 3:19-21
[Study]
How much importance can we attach to family influence in the development of character? How much is a result of the life-shaping choices an individual makes for himself or herself?
[My thoughts]
What would it be like? To be called by the Lord? How wonderful it would be. Yet, the calling is not to glorify or honor the person being called. The Lord calls someone to save His people.
And, how terrible it would be to have a curse placed on your family after having been chosen by the Lord to represent Him? Calvinism is wrong. God let us make our own choices for ourselves, our children and family.
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